Now a Local Nature Reserve, Kenilworth Common has a long history traced back to its creation in 1756. Back then it offered rough grazing land and was covered with heathland and acidic grassland. There were no more grazing cattle after the 1800's and oak and birch trees moved in, creating the woodland we enjoy today.
What's it like to visit?
Finham Brook babbles along the southern edge of the reserve. The brook provides a rich fishing ground for the spectacular kingfisher, and a population of brown trout lurk in its shady waters. Split by the Coventry to Leamington Spa railway, the reserve still has remnants of heathland, which is now a rare habitat in Warwickshire. There's bracken and wavy hair-grass with broom and heath bedstraw all further reminders of a habitat once common locally.
Gorse and heather grow outside the reserve on undisturbed slopes where slow-worm and common lizard have been observed. This reserve brings a delight with every season. Spring flowers colour the woodland floor and summer welcomes fairytale glow-worms. In autumn a range of fungi appear including amethyst deceiver, ugly milkcap and fly agaric, whilst a crisp winter visit provides clear viewing of colourful finches, tits and jays.